The post-season tournament involved Bulgaria with the host nation Japan and was played ahead of the 2006 World Cup – but Scotland’s squad didn’t include several players still involved in the Scottish Cup and FA Cup.
Instead some new national heroes were formed as Scotland saw two scoring debuts and some silverware come home from the land of the rising sun.
Here’s a look at the victorious squad, and where they are now.
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17. Graeme Smith
Goalkeeper was with Motherwell when taken along but not used. Played a B international against Ireland but never achieved a cap. Later played for Hibs, Ayr and Brechin City and most recently with League Two side Stenhousemuir. Photo: Michael Gillen
18. Kris Boyd
Scored twice on his debut against Bulgaria and went on to notch five more. One of Scotland's most prolific strikers after two spells at Rangers and three with Kilmarnock now a frequent Sky Sports SPFL pundit and runs the Kris Boyd charity. (Photo by Koichi Kamoshida/Getty Images) Photo: Koichi Kamoshida
19. Gavin Rae
Rangers midfielder moved to Cardiff then returned to Dundee for two spells around a short stint at Aberdeen. Moved to Australia where he managed Maccabi Hakoah in Sydney. Photo: SNS Group Alan Harvey
20. Chris Burke
WInger scored twice on his debut including an incredible lob for Scotland's fourth against Bulgaria. International career never really took off but club career at Cardiff did. Winger is back in Scotland still playing with Kilmarnock in the SPFL Premiership. Photo: SNS Group Alan Harvey